Principles of EcotourismMinimize physical, social, behavioral, and psychological impacts. Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect. Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts. Provide direct financial benefits for conservation.
The 12 aims of sustainability in tourism have been defined by the UNWTO as: economic viability, local prosperity, employment quality, social equity, visitor fulfillment, local control, community wellbeing, cultural richness, physical integrity, biological diversity, resource efficiency, and environmental purity.
However, many people don't realize that a lot of these tourist attractions are not actually sustainable. Cage diving with sharks, elephant rides, tiger petting, and even whale watching often come with their own set of consequences that are harmful to the surrounding wildlife.